The U.S. State Department has reaffirmed its commitment to rigorous vetting of visa applicants, especially students, amid reports that the Trump administration is preparing to tighten social media screening procedures for foreign nationals seeking to study in the United States.
In a press briefing on Tuesday, State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce addressed concerns over the potential changes, stating, “We take very seriously the process of vetting who it is that comes into the country, and we’re going to continue to do that. Whether you’re a student or a tourist… we’re going to be looking at you. Why would it seem to be such a controversial thing? But it shouldn’t be.”
This comes as a diplomatic cable obtained by Politico revealed that Secretary of State Marco Rubio has instructed U.S. embassies and consulates to halt new student visa interviews, suggesting a forthcoming expansion of scrutiny, including applicants’ social media activity.
Bruce acknowledged that the new measures may appear “counterproductive,” but emphasized that they are aimed at ensuring all visitors respect U.S. laws and values. “It is a goal, as stated by President Trump and Secretary Rubio, to make sure that people who are here understand what the law is, that they don’t have any criminal intent, and that they are going to be contributors to the experience here,” she said, without disclosing specific vetting methods.
According to Politico, the internal directive refers to executive orders related to counterterrorism and antisemitism but lacks clarity on what specific social media content will be scrutinized. Previous guidance from the administration suggested heightened screening for students involved in pro-Palestinian campus protests, especially those related to Gaza, though many State Department officials have privately expressed frustration over vague and inconsistent vetting criteria.
The Trump administration has also taken a harder stance on immigration enforcement, including increased scrutiny of student visa holders and criticism of universities like Harvard over their handling of campus protests and antisemitism-related issues.
While full details remain unclear, the administration’s message is unmistakable: foreign students planning to enter the U.S. should expect more intense and personal scrutiny, including their online presence and political activities.
